Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "break in" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: entering by force, interrupting, wearing something until comfortable, and training someone or something new.
To enter a building or place illegally, usually by damaging a door or window.
The most direct and common verb for breaking into a building, especially for robbery.
A burglar broke into the house.
A more formal term for illegal entry, used in news and legal contexts.
The criminal broke in through the window.
To force open a door, window, or lock. Emphasizes the physical act of prying or breaking.
There are signs that someone tried to break in the door.
To interrupt a conversation or activity, often abruptly.
Literally 'cut into a conversation'. The most natural way to say 'break in' when someone interrupts speaking.
He broke in on my story.
To interrupt someone speaking, often rudely. Can be used for breaking into a conversation.
To cut in with a comment, often politely or to add something. Implies inserting a remark.
May I break in for a moment?
To wear new shoes, clothes, or use equipment until it becomes comfortable and fits well.
Specifically for shoes. Means to break in by wearing repeatedly.
It took a few days to break in the new shoes.
For clothes in general. To wear until soft and comfortable.
These jeans are stiff until you break them in.
For tools, equipment, or machinery. To use until it works smoothly.
To train a new employee or tame a horse so they become accustomed to the work or environment.
For new employees. Means to train or break in a new worker.
He's good at breaking in new staff.
Specifically for animals, especially horses. To break in or tame.
That horse hasn't been broken in yet.
A softer way to say 'break in' for a person: to get them used to the job.
The English phrasal verb 'break in' cannot be directly translated as 壊して入る or similar. Always use the context-appropriate Japanese expression.
彼女は私の言葉を遮った。
She broke in on what I was saying.
I need to break in my new glove.
It took a week to break in the new guy.